Biotechnology

If you like science and math, have an interest in different kinds of scientific research, and think you would enjoy working in a lab and applying research to new products and processes, a career in biotechnology might be for you.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College offers the associate in applied science degree in biotechnology. Students can take all of the courses required for this degree at the college’s building on the North Carolina Research Campus.

Biotechnology Defined

Biotechnology uses living cells and their molecules to make useful products such as medicines to treat disease, vaccines to help prevent disease, and it also helps in the development of diagnostic tests that detect disease.

Biotechnology helps doctors and researchers understand why some people develop illnesses, like heart disease, and others do not.

Biotechnology is used to produce better plants and enhanced crops that are more resistant to insects and harsh weather.

Biotechnology is used to produce alternative fuels, such as bioethanol, and microorganisms that help clean up oil spills.

Biotechnology also is used to produce industrial enzymes, like those used to make “stone-washed” jeans and “green” cleaning products.

There are numerous industries using biotechnology every day. These include pharmaceuticals, agriculture, brewing and distilling, food manufacturing, apparel, plastics and more.

Career Possibilities in Biotechnology

The North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis will bring biotechnology career opportunities to Cabarrus and Rowan counties. Most of these positions will require education and training beyond a high school diploma. However, many of the jobs will be available to people with specialized, two-year associate degrees.

Laboratory Technician

Research Assistant

Greenhouse Technician

Bioprocessing Manufacturing Technician

Quality Control Technician

Instrumentation Technician

If you like science and math, have an interest in different kinds of scientific research, and think you would enjoy working in a lab and applying research to new products and processes, a career in biotechnology might be for you.

Please contact one of the biotechnology faculty members to meet and talk about the biotechnology program. We look forward to hearing from you.